Parks 2017: Springfield
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Parks 2017: Springfield

Jen Shunfenthal, park naturalist at Hidden Pond, with “Fluffy,” the snapping turtle. Hidden Pond Nature Center at 8511 Greeley Blvd. is a wooded oasis in West Springfield for many local birds, fish and reptiles, and a popular destination for scouting groups and school science classes. There is a nature center building with animal literature and several aquariums, and a pond outside with trails for short excursions.

Jen Shunfenthal, park naturalist at Hidden Pond, with “Fluffy,” the snapping turtle. Hidden Pond Nature Center at 8511 Greeley Blvd. is a wooded oasis in West Springfield for many local birds, fish and reptiles, and a popular destination for scouting groups and school science classes. There is a nature center building with animal literature and several aquariums, and a pond outside with trails for short excursions. Photo by Mike Salmon.

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The pond is surrounded by a community so it is a natural refuge for birds in the area.

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Black rat snakes are found in this area and are relatively harmless.

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A slider turtle is one of the species living in Hidden Pond.